My 76 year old stepfather had a kidney removed 3 years ago -- tests determined
a malignant tumor, contained within the kidney. One month ago an x-ray
revealed the renal cell cancer has spread to his lungs. The oncologist in
Charlottesville began him on a daily regimen of 5 MU of alpha-interferon -- to
which he responded horribly: severe depression, stopped eating,
disorientation, weakness. The doctor has taken him off the interferon
completely and is now treating him for depression (caused by the cancer or
the treatment??) and loss of appetite (he's taking a steroid). His next
appointment is this week to re-assess treatment.
Any information on renal cell cancer, interferon, etc. would be most
appreciated.
Stephanie Giles
Arlington, VA
